Airlines Allowing Passengers To Rebook Due To Swine Flu Outbreak

Several U.S. airlines are allowing passengers to rebook due to the swine flu outbreak in Mexico. American Airlines, Continental Airlines Inc and US Airways all said that they were allowing customers to change travel plans if they were concerned about the illness.

This new strain of swine flu has caused an estimated 81 deaths in Mexico and there are now 40 reported cases in the US — but only one hospitalization and no deaths.

The CDC has warned travelers about the illness, but has not advised people not to travel to Mexico. Reuters is reporting, however, that the US plans to issue a travel warning later today.

“There will be a travel warning urging Americans to avoid all nonessential travel to Mexico because of the swine flu,” said a U.S. official, who spoke on condition he not be named as the warning has not yet been officially announced.

It is likely to be announced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, although the State Department will also carry details on its Web site, the official said.